Weather and Traffic

Statesman Interactive: Rock-throwing data reveal patterns

The Austin Police Department recently shared the date, time and location of all rock-throwing incidents in the city since the first one was reported in June 2014. After 13 new incidents were reported last weekend, police are now investigating a total of 83 cases.

Photos of damage from rock throwing incidents are on display at a news conference at Austin police headquarters on Nov. 6, 2015. JAY JANNER / AMERICAN-STATESMAN

All of the incidents have taken place on Interstate 35 in the 21-mile stretch from Wells Branch Parkway to the north to just past Slaughter Lane to the south. Most of the cases have been through the central city, between Riverside Drive and Airport Boulevard.

The data reveal some interesting patterns. The majority of vehicles that were hit — 68 of them — were heading northbound. Most incidents happened on a Saturday or Sunday between 10 p.m. and 3 a.m.

Notably, some incidents happened within a few minutes but were miles apart from each other, which raises the question of whether there is more than one rock-thrower.

Police have declined to share certain details, citing worries that it could compromise their investigation.